Speaking out against the madness has been part of the Newport Folk Festival since it began in 1959. This legendary music festival is still going strong with its expansive offering of traditional and contemporary voices of folk music. The Newport Folk Festival is a dynamic confirmation of the support for folk music in America.

At the 50th anniversary of the Newport Folk Festival in August 2009, legends like Pete Seeger, one of the festival’s founders, took the stage with Joan Baez, Judy Collins, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott and Arlo Guthrie.

Festival founder, producer and musician George Wein says politics, sociology and a personal message add to the essence of folk music.

A new generation of musicians drew big crowds at the 50th Newport Folk Festival. Rhode Island bands Deer Tick and The Low Anthem made their marks as hometown successes.

Ben Kweller, Fleet Foxes, Gillian Welch and some who don’t like to label their music attracted teenagers, families, college students and many who came to previous Newport Folk Festivals. The music spans traditional folk to pure “now.”